Start with an idea: The first step in creating a good storyline is to come up with an idea. This can be anything from a character, a setting, or a plot point that you find interesting.

Develop your characters: Once you have an idea, it's time to start developing your characters. Think about their personalities, motivations, and backstories. This will help you create characters that are relatable and interesting to your readers.

Create a plot: With your characters in mind, it's time to start creating a plot. Think about what your characters want, what obstacles they will face, and how they will overcome them. This will help you create a compelling story that will keep your readers engaged.

Use descriptive language: When writing your story, use descriptive language to help your readers visualize the setting and characters. This will help them become more invested in the story and feel like they are a part of it.

Show, don't tell: Instead of telling your readers what is happening, show them through actions and dialogue. This will help your readers become more engaged in the story and feel like they are experiencing it firsthand.

Use dialogue effectively: Dialogue is an important part of any story, as it helps to reveal character traits and move the plot forward. Use dialogue effectively by making it sound natural and realistic.

Edit and revise: Once you have finished your first draft, it's time to edit and revise. Look for areas where you can improve the story, such as plot holes or weak character development. This will help you create a polished final product that your readers will enjoy.

Starting to hate yourself took time.

Starting to love yourself will take time too.

I’m going to speak on this even though I’m not OP because survival mode stripped me of everything “non-essential” and I’ve put in a lot of work, so here’s what I got:

You probably know people who have desires and plans. Buddy system the fuck out of those relationships. Ask about their gardens, projects, and the new recipes they are trying out. If they are thinking about painting a room, volunteer to help them. Go to the hardware store, let them talk about this and that shade. While you are preparing the room to be painted, think about how the new paint color will look in the morning sun, or at sunset. 

Go to places where others have invested and planned. Community gardens that need watering volunteers. Neighborhood associations looking to fill potholes. Pet rescue centers that need blankets washed. Libraries looking for bodies to hand out summer reading rewards and T-Shirts. Hang out there, watch people care. Maybe lend a hand if you are able.

Allow yourself to be curious. Curiosity is the spark that leads to investment, and planning, and passion. “I wonder what hyenas sounds like” - “Huh, has anyone ever used hyena noises in music?” - “How does a person go about doing that?” - “Could I do that?” It is okay if the curiosity is easily satisfied. You are encouraging yourself to be interested, I promise that eventually you’ll hit on things that then interest you.

Buy candy bars in flavors you haven’t tried and are dubious about. Chips with unholy flavor combos. If it is tasty, share it with a friend. If it is awful, share it with a friend. Put sesame oil in milk to taste, like I did two weeks ago. Because I was curious, because it sounded disgusting but what if it wasn’t, because my friend laughed when I said I would.